Brazilian football star Neymar has announced his retirement from international football following Brazil’s 2-1 defeat to Norway in the Round of 16 of the FIFA World Cup.
The 34-year-old confirmed his decision after the match at MetLife Stadium, bringing an end to a distinguished international career that spanned more than 16 years.
An emotional Neymar was seen in tears after the final whistle as teammates gathered to console him following Brazil’s elimination from the tournament.
Speaking after the match, the forward said his journey with the national team had come to an end.
“I tried. I tried. It started here at MetLife Stadium and I finished here. It is now over,” he said.
Brazil conceded twice during the knockout clash before Neymar converted a penalty deep into stoppage time to reduce the deficit. However, the late goal was not enough to prevent Norway from securing a historic place in the World Cup quarter-finals.
Neymar leaves the national team as Brazil’s all-time leading goalscorer, having scored 80 goals in 130 appearances since making his senior debut in 2010.
The former Santos FC forward enjoyed a glittering international career, representing Brazil at multiple FIFA World Cups and continental tournaments. One of his greatest achievements came in 2016 when he helped Brazil win its first Olympic men’s football gold medal on home soil.
His retirement marks the end of an era for Brazilian football, with Neymar leaving behind a legacy as one of the country’s most influential and accomplished players of his generation.
